Red Hook is a neighborhood of great character. First, it has a exciting history as it functioned as a port and shipping yard. Red Hook also housed many factories and was one of the industrial centers of a bustling New York. In present day Red Hook, the state is not as pleasant. In terms of social life, there is a large amount of crime, loitering, and drug use in the neighborhood. This is coupled with the deteriorating economic condition, in which most companies have moved out leaving vacant warehouses that are only now being filled by small businesses. Furthermore, catastrophes such as Hurricane Sandy have made the economic burden even harder for the neighborhood. However, a strong community board and a city government with a strong focus on education may be the way out for Red Hook. The community board has worked to revamp the infrastructure in the neighborhood and the education system in has been outperforming city averages. These fundamental shifts towards long term development may be the way that Red Hook can return to its past glory.